The cinnamon-breasted whistler is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae. It is endemic to Obira in the Maluku Islands. Formerly, some authorities considered it to be a subspecies of the rufous whistler, while others continue to classify it as a subspecies of the drab whistler.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in primary and mature secondary lowland to lower montane rainforest on Obi Island. It frequents forest edges, riverine corridors, and selectively logged areas with substantial canopy cover. Often forages in the midstory but will descend to the understory along trails and clearings. It can persist in mosaic landscapes if sufficient native vegetation remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cinnamon-breasted whistler is a Pachycephalidae songbird restricted to Obi Island in Indonesia’s Maluku Islands. Some authorities have treated it as part of the rufous or drab whistler complexes, reflecting ongoing taxonomic debate within the group. It gives clear, melodious whistles typical of whistlers and is most often heard before seen within dense forest.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through forest understory
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining territories in suitable forest. Likely monogamous, building a neat cup nest placed in forks or dense foliage. May join mixed-species flocks while foraging but generally remains unobtrusive.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, ringing series of melodious whistles, often delivered from concealed perches. Phrases are repeated and can accelerate or rise in pitch when the bird is excited or during territorial countersinging.
Plumage
Upperparts olive-brown to gray-brown with slightly darker wings and tail; underparts show a warm cinnamon to rufous breast blending into paler belly; throat often paler buff. Feathers appear smooth with subtle edging on wing coverts.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects and other small arthropods, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark. Will occasionally sally to catch flying prey and probe clusters of dead leaves for hidden invertebrates. May take small fruits seasonally.
Preferred Environment
Forages within the midstory and understory of dense forest, along edges, and in semi-open secondary growth with tall trees. Often uses shaded, vine-tangled areas and forest gaps with abundant foliage.
